“Putting Amaechi as Vice-President Makes Atiku’s Ticket Worse” — Wike
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has criticised the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential ticket featuring Atiku Abubakar and his running mate, Rotimi Amaechi, questioning their records in public office.
Speaking at a Rainbow Coalition event in Rivers State, Wike argued that both politicians should account for their past performances before seeking higher office.
“As bad as the Atiku ticket is, putting Rotimi Amaechi as vice president makes it even worse. It is important to show your report card,” Wike said.
He challenged Atiku to explain his achievements during his eight years as vice-president under former President Olusegun Obasanjo, particularly his role in the government’s privatisation programme between 1999 and 2007.
Wike also referenced past criticisms attributed to Obasanjo concerning Atiku’s time in office, urging Nigerians to consider the former vice-president’s record in assessing his current presidential ambition.
Turning to Amaechi’s tenure as Rivers State governor from 2007 to 2015, Wike questioned several projects and financial transactions, including the reported $308 million sale of a gas turbine, the alleged $39 million expenditure on a proposed specialist hospital, the state’s monorail project and $10 million reportedly spent on mosquito control.
“Where is the $308 million? Where is the $39 million? Where is the $68 billion? And where is the $10 million for fumigation?” he asked.
Wike maintained that politicians seeking public office should explain how public funds were managed during their previous tenures. The financial figures and allegations he raised were presented as questions and claims by Wike.
